Did you know that the food industry is projected to reach nearly $900 billion in sales in the United States?
Since the start of the pandemic, this number was reduced, so it is good to see that the food industry is making a strong comeback.
If you put your dreams of opening a restaurant on hold over recent years, there are a few ways to get started.
Continue reading to discover the essential steps on how to open a restaurant so that you can follow your dream!
Come Up With an Idea
One of the first steps in learning how to open a restaurant is to come up with an idea.
Typically, people have a fun concept that comes to mind when they are at other restaurants. However you come up with your idea, make sure that it’s original and relevant. You can get feedback on your restaurant idea by proposing it to friends and family or trusted people in the industry.
Some people’s first great idea is a recipe, while others have a great restaurant name come to mind. Whether you have the mind of a chef or not, you need to produce something outstanding.
Build a Business Plan
After you identify your niche, you can begin building your business plan.
A business plan should act as a guide for your company and reflect your goals. You need to include your official name, inventors, and any other information about the restaurant. A business plan will help you get the funding and support you need to open in the community.
An important step in designing a business plan is to set goals. Give yourself short and long-term goals that are attainable, relevant, and measurable. Over time, you can make adjustments if you aren’t satisfied with the direction that your restaurant is headed.
Handle the Legalities
Permits, licenses, and insurance are essential parts of opening a restaurant.
Much of this paperwork can begin once you get your tax identification number and establish your business. Some of the legalities will begin when you find your building, especially if you are applying for a liquor license.
Work with the health department and city council to ensure that you are following processes correctly. Keep in mind that filing the documents with the city and state could take a few weeks, so don’t wait until the last minute to handle these items.
Opening your restaurant illegally could result in hefty fees and the potential of losing your liquor license.
Find a Location
Aside from delicious food, the location is the next most important detail for a restaurant.
Depending on where you are, you can increase your foot traffic and get more food out of the doors. Try to find a location in an upcoming neighborhood, this is where you can find the best deals and the market isn’t already saturated. Pay attention to the types of restaurants that you would be next to and make sure that you aren’t putting yourself in direct competition.
Locations near hospitals, freeways, and shopping or business centers tend to be the most successful.
Purchase Equipment
You won’t get far without commerical kitchen equipment, especially if you want a large restaurant.
Icemakers, food processors, and stoves are a few examples of the equipment you need to start your new business. Sit down with your chef and write down all of the items necessary so that you can prepare and serve food efficiently.
Although you will be paying for most of these items over time, there are essential tools you need before proceeding. Utensils, furniture, and bathroom amenities are also important. Start filling your restaurant with your equipment to identify what is missing.
Start Hiring & Training Staff
If you want to start a restaurant, you need to have staff to support you.
Chefs, waiters, and bartenders are a few of the positions you will need to fill. The amount of staff you hire will largely depend on the size of your restaurant. Start looking for staff once you have your building so that you aren’t short-staffed on opening day.
Since the restaurant has yet to open, you won’t have staff knowledgeable about your restaurant. It will be your responsibility to teach them the menu, understand the culture, and learn how to problem-solve. As you hire your staff, many people recommend getting them certified to handle food and/or beverages.
A great place to look for staff is online or at a local job fair. You can also use social media to assist with marketing.
Create Your Menu
When you decided on your niche, did you specify what type of food you want to make?
Think about the cultures that you want to influence your menu and try to come up with an original idea. This is the best part about opening a restaurant since you can taste-test items while perfecting the menu with the chef. Farm-to-table and fresh ingredients have recently been trending.
Try not to limit yourself with options, a unique idea could help you stand out in the food industry. After you develop the menu, post pictures and share them online to gauge interest.
Do You Have What It Takes to Open a Restaurant?
If you have a great idea and a determined attitude, you should open a restaurant.
Now that things have calmed down with the pandemic, restaurants are increasing customers and sales again. This is a wonderful time to jump on your opportunity to bring delicious food to your local area.
Don’t be afraid to create unique recipes that will help you stand out from the competitors.
Make sure you read our blog for more articles about how to start a business and build your community!
